Armenia Moves to Expel Russian Border Guards from Yerevan’s Airport Amidst Strained Relations
Last Updated on March 8, 2024 8:20 am
In a significant diplomatic move, Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan announced on Thursday that the presence of Russian border guards at Yerevan’s Zvartnots Airport is no longer required. The decision was conveyed to Russian authorities, marking an end to the arrangement that began in 1992.
Mirzoyan explained that the initial deployment of Russian border guards to Zvartnots Airport was intended as a temporary measure to support Armenia’s independence. However, the current announcement reflects Armenia’s belief in its institutional capacity to independently manage border guard services at the airport.
This abrupt decision comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions between Yerevan and Moscow. Two weeks ago, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced the suspension of Armenia’s membership in the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). The decision was attributed to Russia’s perceived failure to ensure Armenia’s security during Azerbaijan’s military assault on Nagorno-Karabakh in September 2023.
It’s important to note that the removal of Russian border guards from Zvartnots Airport does not affect those stationed at the Turkish and Iranian borders.
Armenia’s Security Council secretary, Armen Grigoryan, mentioned that an official letter was sent to Russia regarding the expulsion of border guards. However, Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov disputed this claim, stating, “No such decisions have been communicated to us through official channels.” The Russian embassy in Yerevan has not yet responded to requests for comment.
The decision to remove Russian border guards from the airport follows accusations by Armenian NGOs, alleging misuse of access to the Border Electronic Management System by Russian border guards to facilitate a kidnapping. The move represents a tangible expression of Armenia’s desire for greater independence in its security matters, further complicating the already strained relations between Yerevan and Moscow.